DIY Network Blog Cabin 2011: Before-and-After Transformation

This circa-1905 farmhouse, originally owned by the Tatterson family of Susan, Va., was gut-renovated in early 2011. Click through before-and-after room pictures to see the dramatic makeover of this Chesapeake Bay treasure.

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Photo By: Frank Murray

Front Yard: Before

Left in a sad state of disrepair, Blog Cabin 2011 was about to sink into the salt marsh soil. A rough gravel drive and overgrown shrubbery left a lot to be desired.

Front Yard: After

The home, lifted 7 feet above the flood plain and outfitted with a new foundation, lap siding and a slate-style roof, presents a friendly face. Southern plantation-style landscape elements, a brick and cobblestone entryway, and a crushed oyster and gravel drive complete the renovation.

Foyer: Before

Old wood floors and a creaky staircase were far from welcoming.

Foyer: After

New heart pine flooring, clad over the existing hardwood, transforms the center hall. The staircase, renovated to meet present-day business codes, becomes the focal point with the addition of a sweep oar-turned-handrail.

Great Room: Before

In the formal parlor, the horsehair-plaster ceiling and walls were crumbling to the floor and the fireplaces were no longer functional.

Great Room: After

The center wall is removed to open the space. The rear wall is replaced with floor-to-ceiling windows. Cozy furnishings, beadboard wainscot and a new gas fireplace transform the once-neglected space.

Kitchen: Before

The walls were crumbling, the appliances were outdated and a rickety folding table stood in for a kitchen table/work island.